Nikon announces 70 - 200mm stabilised zoom lensBy
Mike Tomkins(Thursday, December 12, 2002 - 09:00 EST)Nikon Inc. has announced a new addition to its lens lineup, in the form of the AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8G IF-ED lens.Slated for delivery in April 2003 (and with the MSRP expected to be announced 30 days before it ships), the lens features Nikon's Vibration Reduction and Silent Wave Motor technologies. Other noteworthy points are Autofocus Tracking with Lock-on, "a technology that will enable the system to maintain sharp focus even if the subject is momentarily obscured from view, or if the camera's AF sensor momentarily moves off the main subject" and the use of Extra Low Dispersion (ED) Optical Glass which greatly reduces secondary chromatic abberations.

With Nikon's D-series digital cameras, this lens would be equivalent to a 105-300mm lens on a 35mm camera. For more details, read the press release below.

MELVILLE, NY, December 12, 2002 - Nikon, (www.nikonusa.com), the world leader in photography, today announced the planned delivery schedule for the new AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8G IF-ED lens. This important new lens will feature Nikon's Vibration Reduction system, newly enhanced to compensate for image blur caused by hand shake and also shake caused by movement of the photographer such as riding in a car or aircraft; the compensation can handle shutter speeds about three times slower than one might otherwise use without VR technology. The lens also incorporates Nikon's exclusive Silent Wave Motor Technology for very fast, accurate and nearly silent focusing plus compact, lightweight design for easier handling.

The AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8G IF-ED will be available at Nikon Advanced Systems Dealers and Nikon Advanced Digital Systems Dealers beginning April 2003. The lens' MSRP will be announced approximately 30-days prior to delivery.

"The AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8G IF-ED lens is designed with professional and advanced amateur photographers in mind, offering them a truly compact and lightweight telephoto zoom lens featuring some of Nikon's most innovative technologies," said Richard LoPinto, vice president for SLR Camera Systems, Nikon Inc. "With Nikon's advanced Vibration Reduction technology, this new lens will enable photographers to make crisp, sharp pictures by minimizing the blur caused by hand holding a camera at slow shutter speeds and by potential shaking when the photographer is in a moving vehicle, aircraft or any other moving platform that induces vibration," he added.

Offered exclusively in Nikon's AF-S optics, the Manual Automatic mode (M/A) allows for instant switching between autofocus and manual focus, virtually eliminating lag time in the transition and enabling photographers to make a last minute adjustment, even if the autofocus system has locked onto the subject.

This performance is complimented by Nikon's Autofocus Tracking with Lock-on®, a technology that will enable the system to maintain sharp focus even if the subject is momentarily obscured from view, or if the camera's AF sensor momentarily moves off the main subject.

Extra Low Dispersion (ED) Optical Glass is a high quality, low dispersion glass that enables superior performance from this versatile, compact lens. Through low dispersion characteristics the lens' color performance is enhanced by virtually eliminated secondary chromatic aberrations that are common to telephoto optics that do not include ED glass; this technology enhances image quality with added visible sharpness and contrast to the image.

Nikon's exclusive Silent Wave Motor technology is another landmark development in Nikon's lens development program. Silent and fast autofocusing with superior accuracy and ultra-quiet operation; this technology is highly regarded among professional photographers and is incorporated in a large assortment of Nikon lenses that bear the AF-S mark.

The G-Type feature is designed for the newest Nikon SLR models, including both 35mm and digital, all of which feature a built in Sub-Command Dial, from which aperture control is possible. The design facilitates better lens handling, and helps photographers keep a more positive grip on the camera as they use their right index finger to adjust aperture. This firmer grip and excellent balance will help photographers get sharper images, even as they adjust exposure and quickly shoot their pictures.

Distance Technology (included in D-type and G-type Nikkor lenses) provides precision distance information from the lens. This information is incorporated into exposure calculations for both ambient light and flash illumination, as well as combinations of both. The distance information enables more precise calculations, leading to improved exposure control. Additionally, D-technology also enhances the Nikon system for automatic balanced fill flash.

This selection of Nikon high technology is an example of how Nikon approaches lens design, blending each lens' handling characteristics with those of the camera, for total handling excellence and optical design technology to maximize imaging performance. The AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8G IF-ED is fully compatible with all Nikon SLR models that include a built-in aperture control Command Dial. It will also operate using Shutter Priority and Program Mode operation in many Nikon models that do not have a built-in aperture control.

About NikonNikon Inc., the world leader in precision optics, 35mm and digital imaging technology, is recognized for setting new standards in product design and performance in consumer and professional photographic equipment. Nikon Inc. distributes Nikon's Total Imaging System of consumer and professional 35mm film and digital SLR cameras, Nikkor optics, Speedlights and System Accessories; 35mm compact cameras; Coolpix® compact digital cameras; Coolscan® digital film scanners; Nikonos® underwater photographic systems; and Nikon sports and recreational optics. The company plays an active role in supporting aspiring and advanced photographers through a variety of organizations, educational programs, events and workshops. For product information, contact Nikon at (800) NIKON-US or visit www.nikonusa.com, which links all levels of photographers to the web's most comprehensive photo learning and sharing communities.